USL Conference Alignment Unveiled

The United Soccer League (USL) unveiled a two-conference lineup for the 2017 season, as the circuit will play with 30 teams and a 32-game schedule.

“Building momentum off our U.S. Soccer Division II designation last week, USL aims to become one of the most globally recognized second division professional soccer leagues in the world and our expansive national footprint for this season will showcase teams in 21 of the top 50 U.S. media markets,” said USL President Jake Edwards via press release. “The 2017 USL season will feature a total of 495 games in 19 states with a focus on enhanced competition, and strong regional rivalries in both Eastern and Western Conferences.”

League newcomers the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Ottawa Fury FC will play in the USL’s Eastern Conference while expansion Reno 1868 FC will play in the Western Conference. Saint Louis FC will rejoin the Eastern Conference, and both the Eastern and Western Conferences will each have 15 teams. Here’s the breakdown: